A54SX32A-1CQ256B

Overview

The A54SX32A-1CQ256B is a high-reliability Field Programmable Gate Array from the HiRel SX-A family, manufactured by Microchip Technology. It provides 48,000 system gates and supports up to 228 user-programmable I/O pins within a 256-pin Ceramic Quad Flat Pack (CQFP) package. The device operates at a standard speed grade with a maximum clock-to-out time of 5.3 ns and an internal performance frequency of 240 MHz under military temperature conditions (-55°C to +125°C). It utilizes a 0.25/0.22 µ CMOS process technology and features nonvolatile antifuse architecture for deterministic timing and design security.

Feature Summary

• Military-grade reliability with MIL-STD-883 Class B certification and QML compliance.
• Nonvolatile antifuse architecture providing permanent configuration without bitstream interception risks.
• Hot-swap compliant I/Os allowing safe insertion into active systems without power sequencing requirements.
• Configurable mixed-voltage operation supporting 2.5 V, 3.3 V, and 5 V standards with 5 V input tolerance.

Applications

• High-reliability military avionics and defense systems requiring radiation tolerance alternatives.
• Spacecraft and satellite communication subsystems demanding long-term stability and low power consumption.
• Industrial control systems necessitating deterministic timing and cold-sparing capabilities.
• Secure hardware implementations utilizing FuseLock technology to prevent reverse engineering.

Procurement Notes

Verify that the specific ordering suffix corresponds to the required speed grade and package variant. Confirm MIL-STD-883 Class B qualification status if mandated by the application specification. Ensure compatibility with Actel Designer or Libero IDE software tools for programming and verification. Check for any export control classifications such as ITAR or EAR restrictions applicable to this high-reliability component.

Selection Notes

Select this model when a nonvolatile FPGA solution with guaranteed timing determinism is required for harsh environments. The CQFP256 package offers 228 I/Os suitable for complex interface logic. Consider the 5.3 ns clock-to-out performance for high-speed synchronous designs. Evaluate the mixed-voltage I/O flexibility against system bus requirements before finalizing the part number.

Part Context

This component belongs to the HiRel SX-A family of FPGAs, which are designed for high-reliability applications. The A54SX32A designation indicates 48,000 system gates. The '1' suffix denotes the standard speed grade, while 'CQ256' specifies the 256-pin ceramic quad flat pack package. This family serves as a lower-cost prototyping tool for RadTolerant designs and offers pin compatibility across different package options.

Replacement Considerations

Direct replacements must maintain the same gate count, package type, and military temperature range. Verify that alternative parts support the same antifuse architecture for nonvolatile configuration. Ensure that the replacement device meets MIL-STD-883 Class B requirements if the original was specified for such qualification.